Georgian Politician Levan Varshalomidze, Detained in Kazakhstan, Faces Possible Extradition

Levan Varshalomidze, a Georgian politician and member of the United National Movement party, has been detained in Kazakhstan and faces potential extradition, reportedly at Russia’s request, Orda.kz reports.

Detention

According to Interpressnews, Varshalomidze was detained at the airport upon arrival. One of the party’s leaders, Levan Bezhashvili, stated that a criminal case has been opened against him in Russia, allegedly due to his political consulting activities for Ukrainian authorities.

There is a risk of extradition, so it is now important to establish proper communication with the authorities of Ukraine and Kazakhstan in order to convey objective information and prevent illegal detention,
 Levan Bezhashvili 

Bezhashvili maintains that the charges brought by Russia lack legal merit and are politically motivated.

What is Known About the Detention?

Kazakh authorities have not officially commented on the situation.

However, Orda.kz has learned that Varshalomidze flew from Istanbul to Atyrau on March 18. Upon arrival, he was found to be internationally wanted.

The order for his arrest came from Astana. The Kazakh Ministry of Internal Affairs gave the order. He was arrested on March 18 by border control officers at the airport. They said he was a big shot in Georgia and was wanted. Varshalomidze behaved calmly. He is currently in the police department, and it appears that his arrest is related to a request from Moscow,
sources report.

Varshalomidze gained prominence during the presidency of Mikheil Saakashvili. From 2004 to 2012, he served as the head of the government of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara.

Following the change of power in Georgia in 2012, he left the country but later returned to continue his political activities. In 2015, he became an advisor to former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko.

Until recently, Varshalomidze was reportedly still working as a political consultant for Ukrainian authorities.

Original Authors: Daniel Arturov, Islambek Dastan